What is the purpose of soil amendments in horticulture?

Soil amendments are materials added to soil to enhance its properties and improve conditions for plant growth. The primary purpose is to improve soil fertility, structure, and drainage. Fertility is enhanced by adding nutrients that plants need; structure is improved by altering the physical characteristics of the soil, leading to better root development and microbial activity; and drainage is optimized to prevent waterlogging, which can harm plants.

While changing the color of the soil is not a primary goal of soil amendments, certain amendments can incidentally result in color changes. Preventing soil erosion is related to soil management practices but is not the direct purpose of amendments. Increasing soil pH may be a specific goal in certain situations, but it is not the overarching purpose of all soil amendments, which typically aim for a holistic improvement of soil health and functionality.